Hammers join the race for Campbell

11 July 2010 04:23

West Ham are believed to have joined Celtic and Sunderland in the race to sign veteran centre-half Sol Campbell on a free transfer this summer.

New Irons boss Avram Grant is in the market for a defender, having been linked with Burnley's Andre Bikey amid fears England defender Matt Upson could leave Upton Park before the start of the new season.

Grant sees Campbell as the perfect player to bring experience and organisation to the Hammers' backline - but he faces stiff competition for the 35-year-old powerhouse.

Campbell has held talks with Hoops honcho Neil Lennon and been offered a one-year deal on £45,000 a week by Black Cats boss Steve Bruce, claims the News of the World.

But the Hammers - who can easily match any financial terms offered by Celtic and Sunderland - are hoping the fact Campbell recently bought a property in the capital with his fiancee Fiona Barratt will give them an advantage in the race to secure his signature.